In Odesa region, bus drivers detained on suspicion of transporting men abroad

Law enforcement officers detained two foreign drivers at the border in Odesa region on suspicion of smuggling Ukrainians liable for military service abroad.

According to the press service of the Main Directorate of the National Police in Odesa Oblast, after receiving money, the offenders hid the Ukrainians in the technical compartment of the vehicle, but were exposed at the border.

The illegal activity of the drivers of the international bus Kyiv - Chisinau was exposed and documented by investigators of the police department together with the SBU officers in Odesa region and border guards.

"Two foreigners found a person liable for military service from Odesa and promised to provide him with illegal crossing of the state border, in particular, a trip to the capital of Moldova in the technical compartment of the vehicle, which is intended for storing tools. The criminals estimated their services at USD 8 thousand," said Tetiana Plakhotniuk, investigator in the case.

Law enforcement officers documented how the men advised the client on the details of the trip, and the next day received the previously agreed amount from him and put him in a hiding place. The foreigners were prevented from implementing the criminal plan to the end by the police, who detained them under the procedural procedure at one of the checkpoints in Odesa district.

Investigators seized from the men as evidence of illegal activity: money, mobile phones with information relevant to the investigation, and a vehicle used to transport the conscript.

If found guilty, the drivers face imprisonment for up to nine years with disqualification to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities for up to three years and confiscation of property.

Thecourt imposed on the suspects custody as a measure of restraint with the right to be released on bail in the amount of UAH 121,120.

Кирило Бойко